Racing Swimsuits & Competitive Swimwear

Racing swimsuits are masterpieces of textile engineering: advanced materials like polyamide, elastane, and modern lycra reduce drag in the water, improve muscle compression, and optimize performance. These ultra-thin, flexible, highly hydrophobic fabrics require special care to maintain their properties over time.

1. When and how to wear the racing swimsuit

A racing swimsuit fits like a second skin, designed to adhere perfectly to the body. Follow these practical tips for putting it on safely:

• Wear the swimsuit only 15–20 minutes before the race: the less time it stays on, the longer it will last.
• If you have long nails or dry hands, use thin gloves or specific lubricants like Trislide. Talcum powder is now discouraged as it can dry out the fabric.
• Wear shorts or a tracksuit over your swimsuit while waiting to compete to protect it from accidental abrasions.

2. During the race: beware of rough surfaces

• Avoid leaning against pool walls, touchpads, or lane dividers: they can irreparably damage the fabric.
• When changing lanes or exiting the pool, always swim under the lane lines instead of sliding over them.

3. After the race: how to properly wash the swimsuit

Chlorine is the main enemy of elastic fabrics. To properly wash your swimsuit:

• Rinse it immediately with plenty of cold, fresh water.
• Hand wash it using only neutral liquid soap for delicate garments. Avoid powders, bleach, and washing machines!
• If you are away from home, wrap the swimsuit in a soft towel until you can wash it.

4. Drying: never under the sun or near heat sources

• Do not wring or twist the swimsuit: you risk damaging the elastic fibers.
• Let it air dry flat in the shade to prevent water weight from deforming the fabric.
• Never use dryers, radiators, or irons.

5. Storage: how to extend the life of your swimsuit

• Store the dry swimsuit in a breathable fabric bag (avoid plastic).
• Periodically treat it with hydrophobic sprays to maintain buoyancy and chlorine resistance.
• Never lend your racing swimsuit to others: it molds to your body from the first use.

6. How to choose the right racing swimsuit

Choosing the perfect racing swimsuit can seem complex, but a few practical tips can help:

• Always try the swimsuit on before purchasing, if possible. Each brand has slightly different sizing.
• A racing swimsuit must be tight: a "comfortable" swimsuit does not compress the muscles correctly and may trap water.
• Beginners should start with more elastic, easier-to-wear models, and gradually move to more compressive and high-performance suits.
• Popular models: Jammer (for men), Open Back or Closed Back (for women), depending on your swimming style and event distance.

7. Mistakes to avoid

• Washing the swimsuit in a washing machine or dry cleaning it.
• Drying it under direct sunlight.
• Choosing the swimsuit only for fashion or color, ignoring the proper fit.
• Failing to protect the swimsuit while waiting before a race.

❓ FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if the swimsuit is too tight?

A racing swimsuit must be very snug: if you can put it on easily, it’s probably too loose. It should compress without blocking breathing or blood circulation.

Do I always have to use lubricants?

It's not mandatory, but it's recommended, especially for highly compressive models or if you have long nails. It helps prevent accidental tears during wear.

How long does a racing swimsuit last?

If well maintained, a racing swimsuit can last for 8–10 official competitions at the highest level. With careful use, it can even last an entire season. Don’t expect a racing suit to last longer than that.

Can I use it during training?

No, racing swimsuits are designed for competitions only. Using them during training accelerates wear and compromises their performance. In specific training phases, use old racing suits that you no longer wear in competitions.

(Article revised in 2025)